PAN 2.0 Scam Alert: Government Issues Warning on Dangerous Phishing Fraud – Here's How to Stay Safe

A dangerous phishing scam is being carried out under the false name of “PAN 2.0”, and the Indian government has now issued an urgent public alert. The scam is designed to steal personal identity details and financial information from unsuspecting individuals. The Press Information Bureau (PIB) has clarified that no such scheme exists under the Income Tax Department.

🚨 What is the “PAN 2.0” Scam?

Cybercriminals are sending phishing emails claiming to offer a new version of the PAN card called “PAN 2.0.” These emails are typically sent from info@smt.plusoasis.com and include links directing users to a fake government-looking website.

On this website, users are asked to enter sensitive personal information, including:

• PAN number

• Aadhaar number

• Bank account details

Once entered, this data is stolen and misused for identity theft and financial fraud.

🛑 Government’s Official Response

The PIB Fact Check team has made it absolutely clear:

• No "PAN 2.0" scheme is being run by the Income Tax Department.

• The department never sends such emails or asks users to provide personal information via links.

🔐 How to Stay Safe from This Scam:

The government and cybersecurity experts have urged citizens to take the following precautions:

✅ Verify email domains:
Only trust government emails ending with “.gov.in” or “.nic.in”.

✅ Don’t click on suspicious links:
Avoid opening unfamiliar email attachments or clicking on embedded links without verifying authenticity.

✅ Use official portals only:
For PAN-related services, visit only the official websites:

• incometax.gov.in

• tin.tin.nsdl.com

• utiitsl.com

✅ Report phishing emails:
Forward suspicious emails to:

• webmanager@incometax.gov.in

• incident@cert-in.org.in

🧠 Awareness Is Your Best Defense

Cybercrime is on the rise, and frauds like "PAN 2.0" prey on uninformed users. Stay alert and spread awareness among your friends and family. In scams like these, prevention is the only protection.

🔁 Share this information to protect others.
🔐 Think before you click.